Kampala, September 2, 2024 — In a dramatic display of civil disobedience, at least four anti-corruption protestors were arrested today near Uganda’s Parliament after staging a nude demonstration. The protestors, who were demanding the immediate resignation of Speaker Anita Among, were swiftly apprehended by security forces, escalating tensions in the capital.
The protestors, whose identities have not yet been disclosed, gathered outside the Parliament building around midday, stripping off their clothes to highlight what they described as the “naked truth” of corruption within Uganda’s government. The demonstration, which was intended to draw attention to allegations of widespread corruption under Speaker Among’s tenure, quickly drew a large crowd of onlookers and security personnel.
Eyewitnesses reported that the protestors shouted slogans accusing Speaker Among of turning a blind eye to graft and embezzlement within the legislative body. “We are here to expose the corruption that has been hidden for too long. Speaker Among must step down for the sake of Uganda’s future,” one of the protestors was heard shouting before the arrests.
The police moved in within minutes, arresting the protestors and dispersing the gathered crowd. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, confirmed the arrests, stating that the protestors would be charged with public indecency and illegal assembly. “We understand the frustration of the citizens, but such actions cannot be condoned. There are lawful ways to express grievances,” Onyango added.
The protest follows a series of corruption scandals that have plagued Uganda’s Parliament in recent years, with critics accusing Speaker Among of failing to address these issues effectively. Calls for her resignation have grown louder in recent months, particularly from opposition groups and civil society organizations.
This incident adds to the growing unrest in the country, as more citizens become disillusioned with the government’s handling of corruption cases. Human rights organizations have condemned the arrests, arguing that the protestors were exercising their right to free expression. “This is a clear violation of the protestors’ rights. The government must allow peaceful demonstrations, especially when they are rooted in the fight against corruption,” said a spokesperson for the Uganda Human Rights Commission.
As of now, Speaker Anita Among has not issued a statement regarding the protest or the arrests. However, sources within Parliament suggest that the incident has further fueled internal discussions about the need for leadership changes at the highest levels.
The arrested protestors remain in custody as the police continue their investigations. It is unclear when they will be brought to court or if they will be released on bail.
This is a developing story, and more updates will be provided as information becomes available.